Argentina triumph over rivals Brazil in Melbourne

Argentina has won bragging rights with a 1-0 victory over their neighboring rivals Brazil.

A tap in goal from Gabriel Mercado proved to be enough to clinch the win for La Albiceleste!

A full house at Melbourne’s iconic MCG, saw 95,569 people jam-packed in attendance. The fans created a carnival like atmosphere for South America’s two biggest nations.

Both teams paid their respects during a minute silence for the victims of the London attacks.

Whilst this game may have been a friendly, there was nothing friendly about the fiery challenges from two teams who share a 102 year old rivalry. It’s clear these guys just don’t like each other, as both teams had no problem laying the smack-down!

It was a game of back and forth early on, as both teams took their time to settle the nerves.

A nice counter attack saw Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Ángel Di María through on goal, only to be denied by the woodwork!

Brazil had their opportunity on goal shortly after. A darting run from Chelsea forward Willian caught the Argentinians off-guard. Coutinho was played in 1-1 with the keeper, and surprisingly butchered a chance from point blank range.

Not long after, Manchester City fans would have been holding their breath after star striker Gabriel Jesus went down for a short period of time.

Di Maria was a cut above the rest in the first half, and almost scored after hitting a powerful first time volley at Brazilian goal-keeper Weverton.

Argentina received a slice of fortune, after Otamendi’s header hit the bar and rebounded in the path of Mercado.

WATCH:

Brazil then did the unthinkable, hitting the crossbar not once, but twice and from just metres out! This game’s fiery manner came to a brutal end, with Manchester City star Gabriel Jesus being stretchered off.

This may have been a friendly, but Brazilian fans at home won’t be happy losing to their long-term nemesis.